By Aishat Omowumi Yekeen
Eid-ul-Maulud, a religious occasion observed by some Muslims to commemorate the birth of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), is being marked today as Muslims across Nigeria observe the occasion amid prevailing economic challenges.
The celebration comes at a time when rising prices of food, clothing and other essential commodities continue to place financial pressure on households, influencing how some Muslims choose to mark the occasion.
Speaking on the impact of the economic situation on the celebration, Aisha Abdullahi, a student based in Galadimawa, Abuja, said the hardship should not prevent Muslims from observing Eid-ul-Maulud but should encourage them to celebrate according to their financial capacity.
Aisha said the essence of the occasion should not be measured by expensive food, clothing or elaborate gatherings, but by reflecting on the life, teachings and character of Prophet Muhammad.
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“The celebration should not be about spending a lot of money or trying to impress people. It should mainly be about remembering the life, teachings, and good character of Prophet Muhammad,” Aisha said.
She advised Muslims against going into debt to celebrate, saying people should observe the occasion according to what they can afford.
“There is no need to go into debt just because it is Eid-ul-Maulud,” she said.
She noted that while some families may be able to prepare special meals, buy new clothes or organise gatherings, others may only be able to pray, spend time with family and share whatever they have.
Aisha also acknowledged that there are differing views among Muslims regarding the observance of Eid-ul-Maulud, noting that some Islamic interpretations consider the celebration impermissible.
Despite this, she said the occasion could be embraced simply through prayer, family time and reflection on the teachings of Prophet Muhammad.
She also encouraged Muslims to use the occasion to show kindness to people who may be struggling financially.
“Even sharing a small meal or helping someone in need can make the celebration meaningful,” she said.
Abdulbasit Jimoh, a student based in Lugbe, Abuja, similarly said Eid-ul-Maulud should not place financial strain on individuals or families, particularly during difficult economic times.
According to Abdulbasit, honouring Prophet Muhammad should not be associated with material excess or costly festivities, but should focus on devotion, gratitude and sending blessings upon the Prophet.
“Celebrating Eid-ul-Maulud should not place any financial strain on anyone, especially in challenging economic times, because the true essence of honoring the Prophet Muhammad does not lie in material excess or costly festivities,” Abdulbasit said.
He said the occasion could instead be embraced through personal prayers, gratitude and sending praises and blessings upon Prophet Muhammad.
Speaking about personal observance, Abdulbasit said the current economic situation had encouraged a return to simplicity rather than lavish celebrations.
“Rather than worrying about lavish expenses, the focus is on personal prayer, sending praises and blessings upon the Prophet, and asking Allah to continue to elevate his rank, grant peace to our households, and ease the difficulties across our society,” he said.
Both Aisha and Abdulbasit agreed that the current economic situation should encourage responsible spending and moderation during the celebration.
They urged Muslims to avoid unnecessary expenditure and focus on values such as prayer, gratitude, kindness, generosity and family.
For both students, the significance of Eid-ul-Maulud does not depend on how much money is spent. They said a simple celebration within one’s means can still be meaningful, particularly when it involves reflecting on the teachings and values associated with Prophet Muhammad.
As Muslims marka Eid-ul-Maulud, Aisha and Abdulbasit encouraged individuals and families to celebrate according to their financial capacity, avoid unnecessary financial burdens and extend kindness to those in need.
They maintained that amid economic hardship, the essence of the occasion can still be preserved through simplicity, devotion, gratitude and reflection.
